Scribblory Writers Library
Your virtual library of true stories has come to this site!
Scribblory Writers Library shelters short true-to-life stories written by the memoirists of Scribblory Writers Group. This virtual library started in 2020, at the outset of COVID-19 pandemic. While the world was losing many lives, we held our pens and preserved life stories.
Are the write-ups here too few to quell the thirst of the reader in you? Head out to our old site and read some more.
World Mental Health Day
Navigating Creativity and Mental Health
Written by Alfred Pagunsan Gadayan
October 10, 2024
My mind isn't always sunny and bright. Sometimes it's cloudy and stormy, and that affects how I create things. It's like my mind is a canvas, and what I paint on it depends on how I'm feeling.
When I'm feeling good, my mind is like a clear blue sky. Ideas pop up like bright stars, and I can write stories, draw pictures, or make music easily. It's like everything flows out of me, and I feel happy and energized.
But when I'm feeling down, it's like a dark cloud has covered my mind. It's hard to think clearly, and I don't feel like creating anything. It's like the colors in my mind have faded, and the music has stopped. It's really frustrating, and I feel stuck.
That's when I need to find ways to cope. My creative outlets are like my tools for dealing with those tough feelings.
Writing is my go-to. It's like talking to myself on paper. I can write about how I feel, what's bothering me, or even just makeup stories. It helps me sort out my thoughts and feelings and makes me feel less alone.
Music is another big help. Listening to music or playing my guitar helps me feel calmer and more focused. It's like music washes away those bad feelings and replaces them with good vibes. Sometimes I even write my own songs which is a great way to express myself when words aren't enough.
Art is also a powerful tool for me. Drawing, painting, or even just doodling helps me express myself visually. It's like putting my feelings onto a canvas, and it helps me to understand them better. Also, it's really satisfying to see something beautiful come out of something tough.
Spending time in nature is also really important for me. Being outside, surrounded by trees and flowers, helps me to feel more grounded and connected to the world. It's like nature has a calming effect on me, and it helps me feel less stressed and anxious.
My mental health is a big part of who I am, and it affects how I create things. It's not always easy, but I'm learning to manage it with the help of my creative outlets. They're like my friends, always there to help me through the tough times and to celebrate the good times. And they remind me that even when things are hard, I can still find ways to express myself and to create something beautiful.
nutrition month
Healthy Eating Habits
Written by Alfred Pagunsan Gadayan
July 4, 2024
Embarking on a journey towards healthy eating habits has been a transformative experience, marked by small changes that have made a significant impact on my well-being. Over time, I have learned to prioritize nourishing my body with wholesome foods and making conscious choices that support my health and vitality. Reflecting on the evolution of my eating habits, I am grateful for the positive changes that have enriched my life and empowered me to maintain a balanced and sustainable approach to nutrition.
One of the key shifts in my eating habits was incorporating more whole, unprocessed foods into my diet. By focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, I noticed a marked improvement in my energy levels, digestion, and overall sense of well-being. These nutrient-dense foods not only provided essential vitamins and minerals but also helped me feel more satisfied and energized throughout the day.
Another important change was reducing my intake of refined sugars and processed foods. By cutting back on sugary snacks, desserts, and beverages, I was able to stabilize my blood sugar levels, curb cravings, and maintain a more balanced approach to eating. Instead, I turned to natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, and fruits to satisfy my sweet tooth more healthily.
Incorporating mindful eating practices was also instrumental in cultivating healthy habits. By paying attention to my hunger cues, practicing portion control, and savoring each bite, I developed a greater appreciation for the flavors and textures of my meals. Mindful eating not only helped me enjoy my food more but also prevented overeating and promoted a sense of satisfaction after meals.
Meal planning and preparation became essential tools in maintaining my healthy eating habits. By dedicating time to plan balanced meals, grocery shop for nutritious ingredients, and prepare meals in advance, I was able to make healthier choices throughout the week. Having healthy options readily available made it easier to resist temptation and stay on track with my nutrition goals.
Regular physical activity also played a significant role in supporting my healthy eating habits. By staying active and incorporating exercise into my routine, I not only enhanced my physical fitness but also boosted my metabolism, improved my mood, and reinforced my commitment to overall well-being. The combination of nutritious eating and regular exercise created a synergistic effect that amplified the benefits of both lifestyle choices.
I prioritize consistency, balance, and flexibility to maintain these healthy habits. While I strive to make nutritious choices most of the time, I also allow myself the freedom to indulge in moderation and enjoy occasional treats without guilt. By listening to my body's needs, honoring my cravings mindfully, and staying attuned to my hunger and fullness cues, I have cultivated a sustainable approach to healthy eating that feels nourishing, empowering, and fulfilling.
Reflecting on my journey to developing healthy eating habits, I am grateful for the small changes that have made a big difference in my life. By embracing whole foods, reducing processed ingredients, practicing mindful eating, meal planning, staying active, and maintaining a balanced approach, I have created a foundation of wellness that supports my physical, mental, and emotional health. Nourishing my body with nutrient-dense foods, honoring my cravings with mindfulness, and finding joy in the process of eating has transformed my relationship with food and empowered me to lead a vibrant and fulfilling life centered around nourishment, balance, and well-being.
Boundaries and Self-Care
Written by Nichelle Dizon
May 31, 2024
Self-care is knowing about oneself, and they say self-care is not selfish.
I learned that self-care is a process that cannot be rushed.
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I learned that self-care is about not having to say "sorry" when you don't reply right away to a friend.
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I learned that self-care is about not apologizing for things you cannot control.
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I learned that self-care is a superpower that, once nurtured, can come in handy as a shield when challenges come.
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Day by day, I try to set my boundaries at work. I used to always meet unreasonable deadlines, only to realize that as I understand more about self-care and setting boundaries, it's okay to ask for an extension. It's okay if I can't make it to the finish line. I always feared how my boss would react if I asked for an extended deadline, or if I tried to prove myself too much by claiming I could produce a project beyond my skill set.
Day by day, as I go on living, I learn that self-care needs awareness and mindfulness. For it to be effective, I need to constantly ask myself what I have done today for myself. Because sometimes, and mostly in the past, whenever I tried to give myself self-care, I wouldn’t be mindful of what I was doing.
Self-care is whenever I decide to use the word "I" in sentences just like now. As I write this, I often write "you" and then hit backspace to replace it with "I". It's about acceptance—acceptance of hurting oneself for a bit to get the truth. To see that there is a huge difference between the words "You" and "I", and that with "I", I take responsibility for my actions, for my words, for what I am saying.
Self-care, setting boundaries, and loving oneself, are the keys to solving many problems today. Unusual as this may feel and sound to my ears, I can say that with self-care, I become whole.
World Health Day
Embracing Balance and Well-Being
Written by Nichelle Dizon
April 7, 2024
Last Friday, my mom had the urge to comb my hair for some reason. Well, I'm not really conscious when it comes to fixing my hair, but that's one thing my mom can't stand.
While she was combing my hair, she suddenly screamed in horror. Her voice sounded shocked to the core and she went hysterical. I was then surprised, wondering if my head turned into a monster or something, or if she was just over-exaggerating. She told me that I didn't have hair on one part of my head. Despite hearing it from her, I tried to stay calm because she was already panicking. I didn't know what it looked like because, of course, I could not see my head. On the same day, we went to a doctor and received the diagnosis. The doctor said that the cause of my hair loss was stress and a low immune system.
Stress? I'm not stressed—or am I? Low immune system? Well, for sure, I was getting stressed with the medications that I'm sure I needed to buy. But during that moment in the doctor's clinic, I took a chance to think about the pauses the doctor made as she wrote on her prescription pad. I asked myself the question, “Am I stressed? Is my stress really that bad for me to get this type of hair loss?” She gave me medications, and we went home.
I could not be stressed. That's for sure. But I kept thinking in my alone moments about what my stressors were. Was the stuff I was thinking about really too much? I also got confused about how I would balance stress before my next visit so that my hair would grow. I felt confused, sad, and lost. At the same time, I didn't want to entertain those emotions because I might’ve ended up getting really stressed.
As I write this, there are still a lot of things going on in my head. I’m wondering about how much more self-care I should be giving to myself. My body is now doing the talking, telling me my limits and reminding me what normal health means. There is still a lot to process, but one thing is for sure: this experience has reminded me to go back to my inner core and to live a balanced life.
World Health Day
Navigating Life with Diabetes: Challenges, Lessons, and Lifestyle Changes
Written by Alfred Pagunsan Gadayan
April 7, 2024
Living with diabetes is like sailing a ship on a stormy sea. The challenges are numerous, but each hurdle crossed brings with it a lesson learned and a change to be made for better health and quality of life.
One of the primary challenges I faced was accepting the diagnosis. The realization that I had a chronic condition that required lifelong management was daunting. It took time, but I learned that acceptance is the first step towards taking control. I understood that diabetes isn't a death sentence, but a condition that can be managed with the right lifestyle changes.
The daily management of diabetes was another challenge. Maintaining a balance between medication, diet, and exercise was not easy. I had to learn to be disciplined, consistent, and patient. It was a lesson in self-care and responsibility. I learned to listen to my body, to understand its signals, and to respond appropriately. I discovered the importance of regular check-ups and timely medication.
A significant change I made was in my diet. I had to let go of my love for sweets and fast food. Instead, I learned to embrace a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. I learned the importance of portion control and regular meal timings. I realized that a balanced diet is not just crucial for managing diabetes, but it also enhances overall health and well-being.
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Physical activity became an integral part of my life. I learned that regular exercise helps control blood sugar levels, reduces the risk of heart disease, and improves mental health. I started with simple activities like walking and gradually included strength training and yoga in my routine.
Another challenge was dealing with the emotional impact of diabetes. The constant worry about blood sugar levels, the fear of complications, and the stress of managing the condition took a toll on my mental health. I learned the importance of mental well-being in managing a chronic condition like diabetes. I started practicing mindfulness and meditation to cope with stress. I also learned to reach out for help when needed—be it from my healthcare provider, support groups, or my loved ones.
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Perhaps the most significant lesson I learned was the importance of self-compassion. I learned to forgive myself for the occasional slip-ups, to celebrate small victories, and to be kind to myself during tough times.
Living with diabetes has taught me resilience, discipline, and the importance of self-care. It has made me more mindful of my health and lifestyle. The journey hasn't been easy, but the lessons learned and the changes made have undoubtedly improved my health and quality of life.
In conclusion, diabetes is a challenging condition, but it's also an opportunity to make positive changes in your life. It's about taking one day at a time, learning from each experience, and continually striving for better health and quality of life.